Living with diabetes requires close attention to many aspects of your health—but one area that often goes overlooked is vascular health. One serious condition that diabetic individuals are at higher risk for is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This circulatory issue occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly affecting the legs and feet. PAD can lead to slow-healing wounds, severe infections, and even amputation if left unmanaged.
At Capital Foot Care, we specialize in identifying and treating PAD in diabetic patients. Our team of experienced foot and ankle specialists is committed to preserving limb health and preventing dangerous complications. If you have diabetes and want to take proactive steps to protect your feet, understanding the connection between diabetes and PAD is the first step.
How Are Diabetes and PAD Connected?
Diabetes damages blood vessels over time due to prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels. This damage impairs blood circulation, making it harder for the body—especially the lower extremities—to receive oxygen-rich blood. Poor circulation slows the healing of minor injuries, making wounds more likely to become infected. This is where PAD becomes especially dangerous for diabetic patients.
In addition to circulation issues, many people with diabetes also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve damage, which reduces sensation in the feet. When a cut or blister goes unnoticed and untreated due to lack of feeling—and the body lacks the circulation to heal it properly—it creates the perfect storm for serious complications.
Warning Signs of PAD in Diabetic Patients
PAD may not always show symptoms in the early stages. However, as it progresses, you may begin to notice signs such as:
- Pain or cramping in your calves, thighs, or hips while walking
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Coldness in the lower leg or foot
- Slow-healing sores or ulcers on the feet
- Changes in skin color or shiny skin on the legs
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an evaluation with a podiatrist as soon as possible.
Comprehensive PAD Care at Capital Foot Care
At Capital Foot Care, we provide comprehensive vascular assessments to detect PAD early and develop personalized treatment plans. Our services include:
- Circulation testing to assess blood flow in your lower limbs
- Wound care for diabetic foot ulcers that may be linked to PAD
- In-office surgical procedures to remove infected tissue or correct foot deformities
- Advanced therapies such as skin grafts and negative pressure wound therapy for chronic wounds
- Lifestyle and nutritional counseling to help manage diabetes and improve circulation
- Coordination with vascular specialists when necessary for surgical or endovascular interventions
Early diagnosis and targeted treatment can drastically reduce the risk of complications.
Meet Our Experts in Diabetic Foot and Vascular Care
At the heart of our practice is a team of highly skilled and compassionate doctors:
- Dr. Muhammad A. Khalid, DPM – A board-certified podiatrist with years of experience in diabetic foot care, wound healing, and vascular assessment.
- Dr. Fritz-Andre Duterlein – Known for his advanced treatment approaches in podiatric surgery and diabetic limb preservation.
- Dr. Herman Zarate – A seasoned foot and ankle specialist with deep expertise in treating PAD-related foot complications.
Their combined expertise ensures every patient receives comprehensive and personalized care from a team that genuinely cares about long-term outcomes.
Visit One of Our Convenient Office Locations
We proudly serve patients across Maryland and Washington, DC with offices in:
- Riverdale
- Takoma Park
- Largo
- Washington, DC (2 locations)
Each of our locations is equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment tools, ensuring top-quality care wherever you are.
Take Control of Your Foot Health
If you have diabetes, it’s not just about managing your blood sugar—it’s about protecting your entire vascular system. PAD is serious, but with early detection and expert podiatric care, it is manageable. The key is acting early.
Schedule your vascular health evaluation at Capital Foot Care today. Let our trusted team help you stay on your feet and out of the hospital.
Call us at 301-927-3668 or email [email protected] to book your appointment.
